Banner image for English as and International Language

MATESL program applicants:

Background Requirements

  • must completed a Bachelor's degree; an undergraduate major in linguistics, English, a foreign language, or education is generally recommended though other majors are also acceptable. 
  • must present a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) for the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work.
  • (for all English language learners entering the MA program) must have a score of 100 or higher on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT). These scores are required for all English language learners entering the MATESL program regardless of where they did their undergraduate work. Also, upon arrival on campus for their first semester's work, English language learners must take the UIUC English as a Second Language Placement Test (EPT). The results of this test will determine whether the particular student will have to take one or more English language courses in addition to the other MATESL courses required for the MATESL degree. 
  • (all applicants) must have had two years of a foreign language or have become proficient in a second language in some other way. Furthermore, they must have taken an introduction to Linguistics. These prerequisites must be met prior to, or as soon as possible after the student's arrival on campus. Work done in meeting these prerequisites does not, of course, count toward the credits required for the degree itself.

MATESL Application

Students may enter MATESL program in fall semester only. The Department of Linguistics does not accept applications for off-cycle admissions for Spring or Summer semesters.

Full details on the materials required for the application process may be found on this page of our Departmental Website:  https://linguistics.illinois.edu/admissions/graduate-admission

Applications for admission and financial aid and all supporting information for new students must be received no later than January 4, 2024 at 11:00 PM Central Time.